I wear rubber boots and have very little problems with grip on the river. I'm sure studs would help even more but owning a raft I don't want to bother with having to remove them every time. My biggest concern with my boots were being light. I wanted boots that I could hike in, I ended up buying Patagonia ultralight wade boots and I love them.

I don't have experience with felt but possibly not being able to use them if I travel, or being worried about mold, etc, kept me away from them. Also I think rubber technology has come a long way.

**On a side note. If you are worried about slipping, forget the boots, buy yourself a wading staff.

I think right off you get both felt and vibram that are interchangeable. There are several more add-ons you can get when you have the need. They will give you good advice over the phone, not oversell you.

If you can afford it, get the BOA laces. Easy to get on and off for not much more money. That is helpful when it is cold or hot, which about sums up Texas.

I think you need to re-think your position on Korker quality. There are those who would disagree with you.

Another problem you have is what size to get, the same as your street shoes or one size larger? If you wet wade in the summer and use thick soled waders in the winter, you are going to suffer one way or another.

everyone has their preferences, for their personal reasons.
One person's preference is no reflection on anyone else.
I've bought two pair of korkers for girls, and don't want any for me.
I tend to hunt out good buys, like sierratradingpost and MRFC closeouts.